10 minutes with...Emma Barton

YOU ARE SUCH A WELL KNOW FACE ON OUR TV SCREENS - WHAT DO YOU THINK IS YOUR BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE REGARDING YOUR CAREER?

Receiving the phone call that I was going to be a regular character in the BBC1 flagship show Eastenders!! Having watched the show since it started in 1985 in was a big deal for me. Cut to 15 years later and I still enjoy every minute of playing Honey Mitchell.

We obviously think that you are an incredible and well respected actor but lets talk the glitz and glamour of Strictly! - You looked utterly stunning every week and were an outstanding dancer - which week was your favourite and why?

Thank you..... I couldn't have done it without the fabulous glam squad... I think my favourite look was my American Smooth. Old school Hollywood glamour.. Very 1930's Fred & Ginger. Felt a million dollars.

Who is the most inspirational person you have ever met - famous or not - and why did they leave such a mark on you?

My Mother... She is everything.. She's taught me so much and I'm still learning. I heard this quote and it resonates with me perfectly.
"My Mother is the bones of my spine, keeping me straight & true. She is my blood, making sure it is rich & strong"

which song invokes the most memories for you - the one that makes you stop in your tracks and either smile or cry?

Whenever I hear "Kissing you" by Desree...... Gets me every time. Also played at my Bothers wedding so special day memories.

If you could invite 3 people for dinner (social distanced of course!) who would it be and why?

Julie Walters... She's my inspiration
Alan Carr... Want him to be my best friend.. Always makes me howl
John Legend... His voice!!!

Is there a piece of advice that you have been given over the years that has really stuck with you and if yes, can you pass this on for our readers?

My Dad has always said...
"Be nice to people on your way up because you'll meet them on your way down"

Who's fashion style do you really admire?

Charlize Theron.... Smart,casual,evening she does every look perfect in my eyes...

What is the last thing that you spent over £50 on? Was it something nice? share.

I bought a gel polish kit... I wanted to try and still feel slightly normal during lockdown and of course I started to do much more housework and cleaning so my nails weren't looking to good.. so I thought this was the perfect purchase whilst I couldn't get to a salon..pretty pleased with the result too.

ok - lets talk makeup - what is both the oldest and newest item in your makeup bag?

I still have a Mac lip in Ruby Woo that was bought in Japan when I was starring in Grease the Musical over there from the West End for a month. That is 17 years old!!!!
My newest would be the Iconic Illuminator I have just bought... For when I next go out!! Hopefully soon!!!!

Which makeup product could you not live without - your desert island choice?

Mascara.... If I do not do anything else a bit on top lashes...

What is your favourite lip colour - brand and shade?

I do like Charlotte Tilburys lipstick... and Doll Beauty has now come a close second... Pillow Talk is a classic and Doll Beauty's gloss in nude shades

Is there any particular makeup product from the past that really sticks in your mind and evokes memories - ie, the smell of your nan's powder etc.

Blue eyeshadow..... Remindes me of when I started wearing make up for the first time in the 80's!!!!!

Finally - how has lockdown been for you? How have you spent the time and Is it something you have relished or are you keen to get back to normality?It's amazing how you can fill your day. Cleaning, sorting, addressing your life, your goals and how life/health is suddenly the number one priority!!! Think it's made me slow down for sure. Although I do love to work and really looking forward to going back full gusto!!